Portable wireless endoscope

ABSTRACT

One embodiment provides a device, method, and wireless endoscope. The wireless endoscope includes a light integrated in a first portion. The wireless endoscope also includes a lens positioned proximate the light in the first portion. The light and the lens are inserted into a body. The first portion is interchangeable. The wireless endoscope also includes a connector physically securing the first portion to the second portion. The second portion is not inserted into the body. The wireless endoscope also includes a camera capturing video content received through the lens. The wireless endoscope also includes a wireless transmitter transmits the video content to a receiver associated with a displaying device.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application claims priority to pending U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 61/548,596 entitled “Nasal Guide and Method of UseThereof”, filed Oct. 18, 2011, and U.S. provisional patent applicationSer. No. 61/559,190 entitled “Portable Endoscope and Method of UseThereof”, filed Nov. 14, 2011 and is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/303,117 entitled “Portable Endoscope and Methodof Use Thereof”, filed Nov. 22, 2011, and is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/634,886 entitled “Wireless Viewing Systemand Method”, filed Jun. 27, 2017, all of which are hereby incorporatedby reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Each year more and more surgical procedures are performed through thenose. For example, balloon sinuplasty, brain surgery, and cosmeticsurgery may be performed through the nose of a patient out of necessityor convenience. In particular, balloon sinuplasty has become morepopular in recent years because of enhanced equipment and minimal downtime for the patient. Balloon sinuplasty is an endoscopic surgicalprocedure for the treatment of conditions, such as blocked nasalsinuses. Because the procedure involves the insertion into the nose ofballoon catheters, guide wires, and other devices and instruments, suchas irrigation catheters, illumination systems, and navigation systems,patients might become uncomfortable and find it difficult to remainstill. For example, a physician may insert the sinus guide catheter intoa nostril of a patient to gain access to the sinus ostia underendoscopic visualization.

Procedures and surgeries through the nose of the patient requirepositioning the necessary equipment. Some procedures may requiremultiple medical professionals to ensure proper guidance and placementof the equipment due to the size and awkwardness of the equipment. Inaddition, the medical professionals must be careful to preventunnecessary abrasion of the scope, or other equipment, against theexterior of the nose as well as damaging or irritating the nostrils,nasal passages, and nasal cavity. Current systems, devices, andtechniques for performing nasal procedures fail to adequately addressthese and other issues.

SUMMARY

One embodiment provides a wireless endoscope, device, and method. Thewireless endoscope includes a light integrated in a first portion. Thewireless endoscope also includes a lens positioned proximate the lightin the first portion. The light and the lens are inserted into a body.The first portion is interchangeable. The wireless endoscope alsoincludes a connector physically securing the first portion to the secondportion. The second portion is not inserted into the body. The wirelessendoscope also includes a camera capturing video content receivedthrough the lens. The wireless endoscope also includes a wirelesstransmitter transmits the video content to a receiver associated with adisplaying device. Another embodiment provides a wireless endoscopeincluding a rechargeable battery connected to and powering the light,camera, and wireless transceiver. An exterior surface of the wirelessendoscope is rounded.

Another embodiment provides a device, method, and wireless viewingsystem. The wireless viewing system includes a light emitter integratedin a first portion. The wireless viewing system also includes a lenspositioned proximate the light emitter in the first portion. The lightemitter and the lens are inserted into a body. The first portion isinterchangeable. The wireless viewing system further includes aconnector physically securing the first portion to the second portion.The second portion is not inserted into the body. The wireless viewingsystem further includes a camera capturing video content receivedthrough the lens. The wireless viewing system further includes awireless transmitter transmits the video content to a receiverassociated with a displaying device.

Another embodiment provides a wireless viewing system. The wirelessviewing system includes a connector for securing a first portion to asecond portion. The wireless viewing system further includes a cameracapturing video content received. The wireless viewing system furtherincludes logic that formats the video content captured by the camera fortransmission. The wireless viewing system further includes a wirelesstransceiver transmits the video content formatted by the logic. Thewireless viewing system further includes an interchangeable batterypowering the camera, logic, and wireless transceiver. The wirelessviewing system further includes a receiver associated with a displayingdevice, wherein the wireless transceiver wirelessly communicates withthe transceiver.

Another embodiment provides a wireless viewing system. The wirelessviewing system includes a light emitter integrated in a first portion.The wireless viewing system further includes a lens positioned proximatethe light emitter in the first portion. The wireless viewing systemfurther includes a connector for securing the first portion to thesecond portion. The first portion is at least partially inserted into abody. The second portion remains outside of the body. The wirelessviewing system further includes a camera capturing video contentreceived through the lens. The wireless viewing system further includeslogic that formats the video content for transmission. The wirelessviewing system further includes a first wireless transceiver transmitsthe video content to a receiver associated with a displaying device. Oneembodiment provides a system, method, and portable endoscope. Theportable endoscope may include a case configured to enclose at leastelectrical components of the portable endoscope. The electricalcomponents may include a camera configured to capture video contentwithin a body of a patient. The components may also include one or morelights at least partially encompassing the camera. The one or morelights may be adapted to illuminate internal portions of the body of thepatient. The components may also include a transceiver in electricalcommunication with the camera. The transceiver may be configured toreceive the video content from the camera and wirelessly transmit thevideo content to a computing or communications device. The componentsmay also include a battery configured to provide electrical energy tothe camera, the one or more lights, and the transceiver. Each of theelectrical components may be interchangeable within the case.

Another embodiment provides an interchangeable endoscope. Theinterchangeable endoscope may include a case configured to securecomponents of the interchangeable endoscope. The interchangeableendoscope may also include one or more lights at least partiallyenclosed by the case. The one or more lights may be adapted toilluminate internal portions of a body of a patient. The interchangeableendoscope may also include a camera positioned adjacent the one or morelights and at least partially enclosed by the case. The camera may beconfigured to capture video content within the body of the patient. Thecamera may be interchangeable with one or more additional cameras. Theinterchangeable endoscope may also include a transceiver in electricalcommunication with the camera. The transceiver may be configured toreceive the video content from the camera and wirelessly transmit thevideo content to a computing or communications device. Theinterchangeable endoscope may also include a battery electricallyconnected to and powering the camera, the one or more lights, and thetransceiver.

Yet another embodiment provides a portable endoscope. The portableendoscope may include a camera configured to capture video content witha body of a patient. The portable endoscope may also include one or morelights positioned adjacent the camera. The one or more lights may beadapted to illuminate internal portions of the body of the patient. Theportable endoscope may include a case configured to at least partiallyenclose the camera and the one or more lights. The portable endoscopemay include a transceiver external to the case connected to the cameraby a cable. The transceiver may be configured to receive the videocontent from the camera and wirelessly transmit the video content to acomputing or communications device. The portable endoscope may include abattery connected to the transceiver and external to the case. Thebattery may be electrically connected to camera and the one or morelights by the cable to provide power.

In one embodiment, the portable endoscope may be integrated with orinclude components of a nasal guide.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described indetail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIGS. 1A-C are pictorial representations of nose and nostril shapes onor in which the illustrative embodiments may be implemented;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, plan view of a nasal guide in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, plan view of another nasal guide in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, plan view of another nasal guide in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a schematic, plan view of another nasal guide in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guideinstalled on a patient in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a schematic, side-view of a nasal guide in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a schematic, side-view of another nasal guide in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a schematic, side-view of another nasal guide in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a schematic, side view of a nasal guide being utilized on apatient in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a nasal guide inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a portable endoscopein accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a schematic, side view of a cylindrical light and camera inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIGS. 14 and 15 are schematic, front views of portable endoscopes inaccordance with illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a schematic, pictorial representation of the portableendoscope in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 17 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide beingutilized with a portable endoscope and a balloon catheter in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments provide a nasal guide and a method forutilizing the nasal guide. In one embodiment, the nasal guide provides aguide for inserting one or more endoscopes, catheters, guides, or otherpieces of equipment into the nose of a patient for surgery, examination,or other medical procedures. Unless otherwise indicated, as used herein,“or” does not require mutual exclusivity. In particular, the nasal guidedirects the medical equipment into the nose of the patient toward thesinuses and stabilizes the equipment during insertion, utilization, andremoval of the equipment. As a result, surgeries, such as balloonsinuplasty, may be performed by a single medical professional or fewermedical professionals while still maintaining instrument stability. Thenasal guide may include one or more walled openings, lumens, ports, orthrough-holes for inserting the medical equipment. The lumens may beangled to guide the medical instruments to the sinuses or other interiorportion of the body of the patient. The lumens may include stabilizationcomponents, such as protrusions that further dampen motion of themedical instruments and stabilize the medical instruments during usewhether or not held by the medical professional.

The nasal guide may be configured to be secured utilizing elastic,bands, clips, or adhesives that may be adjusted or customized for eachindividual patient. For example, an elastic band may include a clip orstrings for tightening or loosening the fit of the nasal guide in andagainst the nose of the patient. The nasal guide may be manufactured ina number of sizes and shapes to fit the noses (including snouts andmuzzles) of patients of any age and size including humans and animals.In alternative embodiments, the guide may be configured for a mouth,ear(s), rectum, or other natural or surgically-created opening. In oneembodiment, the nasal guide gently expands the nostrils of the patientallowing the equipment and medical professional to more easily access aninterior portion of the body or nose including the sinus cavity andsinuses. The opening action of the nasal guide may also help the patientbreath before, during, or after the medical procedure is performed.

In one embodiment, the nasal guide may be configured to both receive andguide medical instruments deeper into the nose while expanding thenostrils and stabilizing the medical instruments during the procedure.As a result, fewer medical professionals may be required, and medicalprocedures may be performed with less concern about damaging thenostrils of the patient. The nasal guide may be configured for use in asingle nostril or in both nostrils for enhanced stability. In addition,suction or oxygen attachments may be integrated with, used with, orattached to the nasal guide (portions inserted within the nose as wellas external to the nose) to allow suction or oxygen to be applied to thepatient through the nasal guide. Any of the components and features ofthe illustrative embodiments may be combined in a nearly unlimitednumber of configurations best suited to fit the nose of the patient, theneeds of medical professionals, or other purposes.

Another embodiment provides a portable endoscope. In one embodiment, theportable endoscope is a wand-shaped endoscope that may be utilized aloneor with the nasal guide. The portable endoscope has a reduced footprintand is self-contained to wirelessly transmit video to one or morecomputing devices, which may be wired or wireless devices. In anotherembodiment, the camera of the portable endoscope may communicate and bepowered through a wire or cable with an externally-connected transmitterand battery. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope decreases thesize and complexity of endoscopic systems and equipment. In addition,the portable endoscope may include interchangeable parts including acamera, lights, processing or logic components, a transmitter ortransceiver, and a battery that may be adapted for the patient, medicalprofessional, or medical procedure. Both the portable endoscope and theguide (e.g., nasal guide) may be utilized for any sort of visualizationwithin the body of a patient.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C are pictorial representations of various noses 102,104, and 106 and nostril shapes with which the illustrative embodimentsmay be implemented. The visible part of the nose is the protruding partof the face that bears the nostrils or anterior nares. Typically, theshape of the nose is determined by the ethmoid bone and the nasalseptum. The nasal septum separates the left and right airways of thenose to divide the two nostrils, and is formed mostly of cartilage. Noseand nostril sizes, shapes, and configurations vary by age, sex, race,and other factors. In addition, accidents, birth defects, and otherfactors may influence the size and shape of interior and exteriorportions of the nose, and such circumstances may be accounted for by theillustrative embodiments.

The nostrils 112, 114, and 116 vary between the different noses 102,104, and 106. As shown for nose 102, the nose 102 includes a tip 118,columella 120, left lateral side 122, and right lateral side 124. Thenasal guides of the illustrative embodiments are sized and shaped toconform to any number of noses and nostrils despite the differences insize and shape. The nasal guides may be utilized to guard againstabrasion or damage to the nostrils 112, 114, and 116, and the interiorand exterior periphery of the nose about the nostrils 112, 114, and 116including the columella 120.

In one embodiment of the nasal guide, and use thereof, the patient maybe distracted by the tactile sensation of the portion of the nasal guidethat fits into the patient's nostril(s) instead of focusing on theactual medical procedure that is being performed. As a result, scopesand other medical instruments may be more easily inserted and removedfrom the nostrils without damaging the soft interior and exterior skinand tissues of the nose.

In the illustrative embodiments, the term “patient” is utilized to referto any individual, user, or animal that may have a medical procedure orother process performed through the nostrils of the nose, snout, ormuzzle, or other natural or surgical opening of the body. Although thenoses 102, 104, and 106 shown are human noses, the nasal guides may besized and configured to be utilized for any patient, including anyhuman, animal, or living creature. Non-limiting examples of animals onwhich the nasal guide may be used include domestic and exotic animals(i.e., mammals, reptiles, amphibians, marsupials, etc) of all sizes fromcows and zebras to dogs and ferrets. The term “medical professional(s)”is utilized to refer to any doctor, professional assistant, nurse,dentist, veterinarian, remote operating system and device, clinician,forensic analyst, pathologist, diener, robot, or other person orelectronic device that may perform a medical procedure or other processon a patient. It will be appreciated that operation of the nasal guideis not limited to medical professionals, as, in one embodiment, a usermay self-administer, position, or self-install the nasal guide, as wellas any associated medical or other procedures.

FIG. 2 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide 200 inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The nasal guides of FIGS.2-6 are shown from a plan view from which the nasal guides 200, 300,400, 500 may be adjusted and fit into noses of any patients, such as thenoses 102, 104, and 106 of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C. The nasal guide 200 mayinclude any number of components or elements as herein described. Thepotential size and shape of the nasal guide 200 are as varied as thepatients that the nasal guide 200 may be used on.

The nasal guide 200 may alternatively be a guide for any body orifice oropening (e.g., ear, mouth, rectum, etc.), passageway, or tissue planenaturally or surgically created. For example, the guide may be adaptedfor use with an endoscope (such as the one subsequently described) forlaparoscopic abdominal surgery, orthopedic procedures, robotic surgery,or intracranial or ear surgery. The nasal guide 200 may be used whennumerous medical instruments are inserted into the body. The exteriorportion (i.e., the portion of the guide adapted to be outside of thebody) and the interior portion (i.e., the portion of the guide adaptedto be inside of the body) of the guide may be configured for thesurrounding entry site whether it be the ear or rectum of the patient, asurgically-created opening through the belly button of the patient, orother openings. For example, the exterior portion of the guide may besubstantially flattened to be fit to the patient. In addition, the guidemay have only one side, or support, instead of two (e.g. the potentialtwo-sided configuration of the nasal guide 200, shown in FIG. 2, may befor use in both nostrils).

In one illustrative embodiment, the nasal guide 200 is formed fromhypoallergenic medical grade materials, such as U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)Class V and VI silicon, rubber, polymers, or plastic materials (or acombination thereof), including those known in the art. In oneembodiment, the nasal guide 200 is clear or transparent to provide themedical professional with maximum visibility of all covered anduncovered portions of the nose, whether exterior or interior to thenostrils. In one example, the nasal guide may be molded from a singlepiece of medical grade plastic, silicon, composite, or rubber.Alternatively, multiple components of different materials may beconnected or fused together. In one embodiment, the plastic issee-through, translucent, or transparent to provide the medicalprofessional additional visibility of all portions of the nose of thepatient. As a result, a light source may be connected to the nasal guide200 so that it may act as a light guide.

In one embodiment, before use or application of the nasal guide 200, theshape of the nasal guide 200 may be molded or fit to a mold or nose ofthe patient. For example, the nasal guide 200 may be heated in hot waterand then formed to the size and shape of the nose of the patient. Aseparate insulating layer or surface may coat or be attached the portionof the nasal guide 200 contact the skin, tissue, and cartilage of thepatient to prevent burning the patient during the molding process. Theinsulating layer may also have medicinal properties as herein described.In another embodiment, one or more pictures, a three-dimensional image,x-ray, MRI, or other scan of the nose may be utilized to create or moldthe nasal guide 200. For example, an image may be utilized by aninjection molding system to create the nasal guide 200. In yet anotherexample, the nasal guide 200 may be adjusted manually using the flexiblematerial properties of the components of the nasal guide 200.

The nasal guide 200 may also have anti-fungal, anticoagulant,procoagulant, and/or anti-bacterial properties for preventing the spreadof infections from the mouth or lips to the inside of the nose andbrain. In one embodiment, the material of the nasal guide 200 may beformulated, molded, impregnated, injected, coated, or otherwise createdwith any of the described compounds, materials, or properties to preventany unwanted spread of germs or infection. For example, the nasal guide200 or an interior portion of the nasal guide 200 inserted into the nosemay be coated with an anesthetic agent, such as lidocaine cream to makethe nasal guide 200 more comfortable.

In one embodiment, the nasal guide 200 includes a left support 202, aright support 204, a bridge 206, upper lumens 208, lower lumens 210,drains 212, and an elastic 214. In one embodiment, the left support 202and right support 204 (collectively the “supports”) are the supportiveframework of the nasal guide 200 that prevents the nasal guide 200 fromslipping into the nostrils, and in which the lumens 208, 210 are formed.The supports 202 and 204 may help prevent the nasal guide 200 fromslipping during a medical procedure. The supports 202 and 204 may alsoguard covered portions of the nose from contact with objects, such asmedical instrumentation. The left support 202 and right support 204 areeach configured to abut, be placed against, adjacent, or proximate leftand right portions of the nose and nostrils, respectively. The supports202 and 204 may also be placed in contact with the columella, philtrum,and upper lip. In one embodiment, the supports 202 and 204 are directlycoupled to one another for additional support without the need for abridge 206.

In one embodiment, the supports 202 and 204 may include lateral edges orextensions (not shown) that extend perpendicular to the general plane213 of the supports 202 and 204 on the outer edges of the supports 202and 204 for cradling the sides of the nose of the patient during use ofthe nasal guide 200 (see the lateral edges 312 of FIG. 3 for anexample). The supports 202 and 204 may also extend or include extensionsto be supported by the cheeks of the patient. For example, in anembodiment of the nasal guide 200 that may be appropriate for intensivesurgeries, the supports 202 and 204 may be shaped to extend out to andbe braced or flattened against the cheeks of the patient. In oneembodiment, the lateral edges (see, e.g., FIG. 3) stabilize the nasalguide 200 as medical instruments are inserted into and removed throughthe upper lumens 208 and lower lumens 210. For example, the lateraledges may provide lateral stability. The lateral edges are further shownand described in FIGS. 3 and 7-10.

With reference to FIG. 3, the lateral edges 312 may act, and be shaped,as clips for gently securing the nasal guide 300 against the sides ofthe nostrils during utilization of the nasal guide 300. The lateraledges 312 may be wide enough to secure an entire or substantial portionof the side of the nostril when the nasal guide 300 is attached.

Referring again to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the nasal guide 200 mayinclude the bridge 206, which may be a connector or other elementbetween the supports 202 and 204. The bridge 206 may be configured sothat the angle and position of the left support 202 and right support204 may be adjusted to fit the size and shape of the nose and nostrilsof the patient. The bridge 206 itself and the connection points betweenthe bridge 206 and supports 202 and 204 may be flexible, allowing thenasal guide 200 to be positioned, flexed, or stretched as needed for thepatient's nose or medical procedure. This allows the nasal guide 200 tobe contoured, or otherwise fitted, to different sized and shaped nosesand nostrils. As shown in the various embodiments, the bridge 206 may beplaced at, or connected to, the top, middle, or bottom of the supports202 and 204 or lateral edges or at any position therebetween.

In another embodiment, the nasal guide 200 may include multiple bridgesfor connecting the supports 202 and 204. For example, bridges may beattached to the top and bottom of the left support 202 and right support204 curving in the same or different directions (e.g., curving up anddown respectively) to allow the bridges to be flexed or stretched asneeded to fit the nose of a patient. The bridge 206 or bridges may beconnected to the inside or outside edges, top, bottom, or middle of thesupports 202 and 204.

In one embodiment, the bridge 206 is positioned between the supports 202and 204 and attaches to the middle of the supports 202 and 204 on theinside edges to provide maximum flexibility for moving the supports 202and 204 toward each other and adjusting the angle of the supports toconform to the nostrils. In another embodiment, the nasal guide 200 maynot include a bridge 206 and instead the supports 202 and 204 may bedirectly or flexibly connected to one another. The bridge 206 may be acylindrically-shaped, rounded, or flattened connector for providingcomfort or support when freely positioned away from the nose orpositioned against the columella, tip, bridge, or other portion of thenose.

The upper lumens 208 and lower lumens 210 (collectively the “lumens”)are tubes or other passageways including openings through which themedical instruments may be inserted or communicated. Alternatively, thelumens 208 and 210 may be referred to as openings, through-holes, orguides. The lumens 208 and 210 may be formed by or in the supports 202and 204, and may be defined by walls that extend beyond the plane of thesupports 202 and 204 such that passageways into the nostrils areprovided. In one embodiment, the lumens 208 and 210 may extendsubstantially perpendicular from the general plane 213 of the supports202 and 204. However, the lumens 208 and 210 may also be angled relativeto the general plane 213 of the supports 202 and 204.

In another embodiment, the walls of the lumens 208 and 210 may be shortand extend inward and toward the bottom of the nasal cavity or passagefor applying suction within the nose. For example, an interior end ofthe lumens 208 and 210 may have a tapered end, or open in a scoop orfunnel shape for applying suction. In yet another embodiment, the wallsof the lumens 208 and 210 may extend or curve slightly upward or to aside from the supports 202 and 204 to better guide medical instrumentstoward a specific sinus in the nasal cavity. In one embodiment, thenasal guide 200, and particularly the lumens 208 and 210, may beconfigured to be inserted anywhere from 0-10 centimeters (e.g., 2-10 cm)or more into the nose of the patient. In another embodiment, the nasalguide 200, and particularly the lumens 208 and 210, may not enter thenostrils at all, and instead may be positioned near the opening of thenostrils or extend externally from the nasal guide 200.

The lumens 208 and 210, including the walls thereof, may protrude pastthe general plane 213 of the supports 202 and 204 to both guide andstabilize medical instruments. In some cases, longer lumens 208 and 210may simplify performing medical procedures without additionalendoscopes, catheters, or instruments. For example, a greater length ofthe lumens 208 and 210 may better stabilize a portion of the medicalinstruments inserted through and positioned in the lumens 208 and 210.In one embodiment, either end of the lumens 208 and 210 may beconfigured to receive inwardly extending or externally protrudingextensions. The extensions may be straight or curved or have any of theother properties described for the nasal guide 200 and lumens 208 and210.

The diameter of the lumens 208 and 210 may vary based on theapplication. In one embodiment, the opening of the lumens 208 and 210are between 5 mm-2.5 cm in diameter for human applications, but this mayvary. In one embodiment, the size or diameter of the lumens 208 and 210may be uniform along the length of the nasal guide. In anotherembodiment, the size of the lumens 208 and 210 may narrow slightly atthe interior end allowing the nasal guide 200 to have a more conical orfunnel shape for easy insertion of medical instruments. Additionally,the conical or funnel shape may naturally expand the nostrils wheninserted.

Also, in one embodiment, any of the openings of the lumens 208 and 210may be flared so that medical instruments do not catch on internal orexternal (to the nose) edges of the lumens 208 and 210.

The lumens 208 and 210 may utilize any number of symmetrical orasymmetrical shapes, such as circles, ellipses, polygons, tear dropshapes, etc. The walls may similarly define these shapes extending fromthe supports 202 and 204. In another embodiment, the lumens 208 and 210and corresponding walls may form a cylindrical, conical, or hyperbolicshape extending into the patient's nasal cavities when the nasal guide200 is inserted as shown in FIGS. 6-10. In one embodiment, both ends ofthe lumens 208 and 210 may be flared and rounded to prevent medicalinstruments from catching on the openings as medical instruments areinserted and removed from the nose of the patient. In one embodiment,the openings of the lumens 208 and 210 may be at least partially coveredwith a flexible material with one or more slits, slots, notches, orperforations (e.g. forming a diaphragm or membrane with an opening) forsliding the medical instruments in and out. For example, the openings ofthe lumens 208 and 210 may be shaped similar to the portion of the lidof a cup adapted to receive a straw. The slits may support the medicalinstruments and prevent the spread of fluids or leakage of fluids.

In one embodiment, the lower lumens 210 may be positioned lower on thesupports 202 and 204 for use in applying suction through the nasal guide200. The lower lumens 210 may be closer to the bottom of the nostril andmore proximate the lip of the patient when the nasal guide 200 ispositioned on the patient. For example, during a medical procedure,mucus, blood, or other fluids may pool against the supports 202 and 204of the nasal guide 200. The lower lumens 210 may be positioned tosuction out these fluids. In one embodiment, the lower lumens 210 may beshort to allow the fluids to flow out of the nasal guide 200 through thelower lumens 210. In another embodiment, inwardly-extending walls of thelower lumens 210 may extend straight or at an angle to be proximate ortouch a bottom portion of the nasal cavity where fluids are most likelyto collect. The inwardly-extending walls may also extend at an angle toa general plane 213 of the supports 202 and 204.

In another embodiment, one or both of the lumens 208 and 210 may alsoextend outwardly from the nostrils and define ports for applying orattaching specially-made or traditional oxygen or suction fittings,adapters, systems, or devices, such as an oxygen system (e.g. through anasal cannula), or tubes. Alternatively, the interior or exteriorportions of the lumens 208 and 210 may be configured to receive adapters(now shown) for providing suction or oxygen through the nasal guide 200or extending the reach or direction of the lumens 208 and 210. The shapeand configuration of the adapters may also vary. For example, theadapters may be funnel shaped for receiving medical instruments.Alternatively, the adapter may include a 90° bend for reaching aparticular sinus.

In one embodiment, the adapters may be inserted into the lumens 208 and210 and may remain in place due to tight tolerances and friction betweenthe lumens 208 and 210 and adapters. In another embodiment, the lumens208 and 210 and adapter may include threads, barbed connectors, orlocking tabs allowing the adapter to be screwed or snapped into thenasal guide 200. For example, immediately after a medical procedure isperformed, oxygen and/or suction may be attached to the nasal guide 200without using other instruments. As a result, time and resources may besaved without further inconveniencing the patient by adding and removingadditional components. The lumens 208 and 210 may then act as nozzlesfor delivering oxygen or for coupling suction ends to apply suction tothe nasal cavity of the patient. Oxygen or suction may also be appliedto the lumens 208 or 210 during a medical procedure as needed. Forexample, the oxygen may be applied during the procedure to keep theinterior of the nose dryer. In one embodiment, the interior end of thelumens 210 may be formed in the shape of a scoop that fits within thenasal passage to channel any blood, mucous, or fluids through the lumens210 for removal. The scoop end of the openings on the internal side ofthe nasal guide may be wide enough to fit along the entire width of thebottom and sides of the nasal passage to channel the fluids through thelumens 210.

In one embodiment, the lumens 208 and 210 may not extend past thegeneral plane 213 of the supports 202 and 204. Instead, the lumens 208and 210 may extend away from the nose and nostrils of the patient whenpositioned on the patient. As a result, the lumens 208 and 210 may notirritate the patient's nasal cavity. Exterior lumens may similarlystabilize and guide medical instruments to the correct position.Alternatively, a combination of internally and externally lumens 208 and210 may be utilized. For example, the nasal guide 200 may includeadditional guides, rings, or other supports for supporting a portableendoscope as is subsequently described. In one embodiment, the lumens208 and 210 may be dilated, collapse, or include a circularly-foldingstructure for adjusting the diameter of each lumen. As a result, thesize of the lumens 208 and 210, or other components of the nasal guide200 may be adjusted or customized for the patient.

In another embodiment, the nasal guide 200, the supports 202 and 204,the lumens 206 and 208 may be cut down or sized to fit the patient. Inone embodiment, the nasal guide 200 may include perforations (or thinneror weaker areas) for cutting or breaking away sections of any portion ofthe nasal guide for customization for the patient. The nasal guide 200may also include markings, such as metric or English unit measurements,for properly sizing and utilizing the nasal guide 200. Such markings maybe inscribed, molded, etched, printed, or otherwise included on thenasal guide 200.

In one embodiment, the nasal guide 200 may include drains 212. Thedrains 212 are one or more openings, slits, or notches through a portionof the nasal guide that allows fluid to pass through, below, or aroundthe nasal guide 200. The drains 212 may allow fluids to bypass the nasalguide 200 to be dealt with in any number of ways. The drains 212 mayutilize any number of shapes or configurations. In one embodiment, thedrains 212 may be semi-circular, rectangular, or square shaped. Inanother embodiment, the drains 212 may be a single cut-away portion ofthe supports 202 and 204 allowing the fluids to flow under the supports202 and 204. For example, the fluids may be soaked up by gauze orsuctioned by the medical professional once past the supports 202 and 204of the nasal guide 200.

In one embodiment, the supports 202 and 204 may include a clip, or otherattachment mechanism, for attaching gauze in such a way that the gauzeabsorbs the fluid that passes through the drains 212 without interferingwith insertion or removal of medical instruments through the lumens 208and 210. The clip may also be utilized to attach the end of a suctiondevice. The clip may extend from any surface or edge of the supports 202and 204.

The nasal guide 200 may include headgear or other securing component(s),device(s), or mechanism(s). In one embodiment, the headgear is theelastic 214. The elastic 214 is a fastener usable to secure or stabilizethe nasal guide 200 during use. In one embodiment, the elastic 214 is anelastomer or other stretchable material that may be utilized to securethe nasal guide 200 about the head, ears, personal or medicalaccessories (i.e. glasses), or neck of the patient. The elastic 214 mayattach to the supports 202 and 204 or the lateral edges of the supports202 and 204. The elastic 214 may be one or more narrow or wide bands.The wider band may provide additional surface area and more comfort tothe user. For example, the elastic 214 may be neoprene straps that aresecured around the neck or head of the patient utilizing a hook and loopstrap, barbed connector, Velcro, buckle, or other known securingmechanism on either end of the neoprene straps. In one embodiment, theheadgear may be attached to and removed from the nasal guide forrepeated use. The headgear may be configured to be washed or otherwisesanitized as needed.

In one embodiment, the elastic 214 is formed of or covered by a clothmaterial for the comfort of the patient. The elastic 214 may have a highelastaine content for adjusting to the size and shape of the applicableportion of the patient (e.g., head, neck, or ears), including adults orchildren. As with other elastics, a portion of the elastic 214 may bepulled through holes (not shown) of the supports 202 and 204 (or lateraledges of the supports 202 and 204) to tighten the fit of the nasal guide200 when worn by the patient. Alternatively, a belt strap-typeconfiguration may be utilized for the elastic 214. Any number ofadjustment mechanisms or components may be utilized with the elastic 214or other securing mechanism to properly fit the nasal guide 200 to thepatient. Skin glue, tape, or other similar components may be utilized ina stand-alone configuration or with the elastic 214 to secure the nasalguide 200.

In one embodiment, the nasal guide 200 may include a single support,such as the support 202, and no bridge 206. The elastic 214 may beattached to either or both sides of the support 202 and may be used forsituations where the medical professional(s) only needs access throughthe nostril on one side of the nose, or any single opening on thepatient's body. Alternatively, the nasal guide 200 may be moved betweennostrils to save materials and expense of manufacturing. In oneembodiment, the nasal guide 200 may be used a single time before beingdisposed. The nasal guide 200 may also be configured for repeated use,including repeated use after sterilization. For example, the nasal guide200 may be run through and sanitized by an autoclave without beingruined or altered. The single support size of the guide may also beutilized for other natural or surgically-created orifices or body parts.For example, the support 202 may conform to the shape of an ear,buttocks, incision in the abdomen, and so forth.

In one embodiment, the nasal guide 200 may include differently-sized orshaped supports 202 and 204 that may be linked by the bridge 206 suchthat the support 202 has a different size or shape than the support 204.For example, a patient with an irregular nose or nasal valve collapsemay require that the supports 202 and 204 and/or lumens 208 and 210 aredifferently-sized or shaped for each size or shape of the nose. In oneembodiment, the bridge 206 or supports 202 and 204 may be separatelycreated (e.g. molded), clipped, or otherwise attached to one another tobe customized for the patient.

In another embodiment, the supports 202 and 204, lumens 208 and 210(whether single openings or multiple openings are utilized), andcorresponding framework or walls may be referred to as nozzles.

In another embodiment, the nasal guide 200 may include interchangeablecomponents that allow a medical professional to customize or assemblethe nasal guide 200 for each patient. For example, the supports 202 and204 and bridge 206 may be the framework or support structure of thenasal guide 200 that may be selected. The supports 202 and 204 may beconfigured to receive a lumen module (not shown). The lumen module is afitting adapted to be connected to each of the supports and includes oneor more lumens. In one embodiment, the lumen module may be conicallyshaped for expanding each nostril as is described herein. In oneexample, the lumen module may include three 2 mm lumens for receivingmultiple instruments. The number of lumens 208 and 210 utilized in thenasal guide 200 is not limited, but may be between 1 and 6. In anotherexample, the lumen module may include one 8 mm lumen or two 4 mm lumens.The lumen module may be attached or removed from each of the supports202 and 204. As a result, the nasal guide 200 may be utilized repeatedlyby assembling the distinct parts for each patient. In one embodiment,the medical professional may include various sizes and configurationsfor each of the components of the nasal guide 200 for adapting the nasalguide 200 for each individual patient and medical procedure.

FIG. 3 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide 300 inaccordance with another illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide 300 ofFIG. 3 may include a left support 302, a right support 304, bridge 306,lumens 308, lateral edges 312, and an elastic 314.

In this embodiment, the supports 302 and 304 are oval shaped to moreclosely fit the size and shape of certain nostrils and noses. Forexample, the supports 302 and 304 may be positioned to abut against thebottom portion of the noses with the lumens 308 extending into thenostrils and toward the nasal cavities. As shown in FIG. 3, each of thesupports 302 and 304 forms a respective lumen 308 for receiving one ormore medical instruments. In one embodiment, the lumens 308 are largerfor receiving a larger single instrument or multiple instruments atonce.

In the nasal guide 300, the bridge 306 may be shaped differently forvarious functions. In this embodiment, the bridge 306 is configured tosupport, surround, or cup the tip of the nose of the patient. Forexample, the bridge 306 may be shaped to extend along the bottom of thenose of the patient with a portion of the bridge 306 being substantiallyrounded or bent to conform to the typical rounded shape of the tip ofthe patient's nose.

The nasal guide 300 may also include lateral edges 312. The lateraledges 312 are stabilizers configured to support or abut the lateral, orside, edges of the nose to provide external alignment with the nostrils.The lateral edges 312 may extend substantially perpendicularly from thesurface or general plane 313 of the supports 302 and 304, and may alsoextend toward the face of the patient when the nasal guide 300 is inuse. The lateral edges 312 may further stabilize the nasal guide 300during use and performance of a medical procedure. In one embodiment,the lateral edges 312 may be elongated semicircles. In anotherembodiment, the lateral edges 312 may be small arms, tabs, clips, orextensions that are shaped as a square, rectangular, or elliptical. Thelateral edges 312 and other portions of the nasal guide 300 may bepadded or include an additional material to make the nasal guide 300more comfortable when positioned against the skin.

In one embodiment, the lateral edges 312 may help secure the nasal guideby holding, or abutting against, both the interior and exterior of thenose. For example, the lateral edges 312 and walls of the opening orlumen may act as a clip securing the nasal guide 300 to the inside andoutside of the edges of the nostrils.

FIG. 4 is a schematic, plan view of a nasal guide 400 in accordance withanother illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide 400 includes upperlumens 408 and lower lumens 410 that are differently sized for receivingmedical instruments. The size and shape of the upper lumens 408 andlower lumens 410 may depend on the type of medical procedure beingperformed and the medical instruments involved. The upper lumens 408 andthe lower lumens 410 may be positioned horizontally (side-by-side),diagonally, or in any other position with respect to one another.

The nasal guide 400 includes a bridge 406 that is also configured as aclip. The bridge 406 may be biased to push the supports 402 and 404toward each other and secure the nasal guide 400 on, within, and to thenose of the patient. In another embodiment, the bridge 406 may be biasedto push the supports 402 and 404 away from each other to further expandthe nostrils of the patient while still securing the nasal guide 400.The bridge 406 may secure the nasal guide 400 without the need forelastic or other securing mechanisms. The bridge 406 may be integratedwith or attach to lateral edges 412 or directly to the supports 402 and404. In one embodiment, the bridge 406 extends directly upward in linewith or parallel to the general plane 414 of the supports 402 and 404.The bridge 406 may also be angled such that the top of the bridge 406extends in front of or behind the supports 402 and 404. In anotherembodiment, the bridge 406 may connect to the lateral edges 412 andextend away from the general plane 414 of the supports 402 and 404 abovethe bridge of the nose.

In one embodiment, the bridge 406 may be sized and shaped such that thebridge 406 does not touch the nose of the patient. In anotherembodiment, the bridge 406 may abut the outside edge of the nose of thepatient to provide another point of contact for stabilizing the nasalguide 400. In one embodiment, the bridge 406 may include a shield, orblinders, clips, or attachments for such components, to prevent thepatient from seeing the insertion and removal of the medicalinstruments. For nervous, fearful, or scared patients that are awake,blocking the sight of the patient may help the patient to not focus onwhat may be seen. In addition, the tactile sensation of the nasal guide400 may help the patient not focus on the medical procedure beingperformed. The interior and exterior of the nose includes a large numberof nerves. The sensation of the nasal guide 400 being inserted and wornmay distract the patient from more significant pain or sensations thatresults from performance of the medical procedure.

FIG. 5 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide 500 inaccordance with another illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide 500further illustrates a bridge 506 positioned at a middle or bottomportion of the supports 502 and 504. The positioning and interconnectionof the bridge 506 and elastic 514 may be configured to best fitdifferent sizes and shapes of noses. Drains 512 may be shaped as asingle opening for allowing the fluid to flow past the supports 502 and504. For example, the drains 512 may be rounded in the form of asemi-circle for the comfort of the user.

FIG. 6 is a perspective pictorial representation of the nasal guide 300of FIG. 3 applied to a patient 601 in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. The nasal guide 300 of FIG. 6 illustrates utilization of thenasal guide 300 on a nose 602 of a patient 601. The lateral edges 312wrap around the edge of the nose 602 to further secure the nasal guide300 from horizontal motion during the medical procedure.

The bridge 306 may cup or support the tip of the nose 602 to providevertical and/or horizontal support. The bridge 306 may also wrap aroundthe entire tip of the nose 602 to further secure the nasal guide 300from vertical motion during the medical procedure. In other embodiments,the bridge 306 may be flattened or rounded to abut against the bottom ofthe nose 602 when the nasal guide 300 is positioned or installed. In yetanother embodiment, the bridge 306 may extend back or up from thesupports 302 and 304 toward the eyes of the patient 601. In such aconfiguration, the nasal guide 300 may sit along a top 604 or bridge ofthe nose 602.

FIG. 7 is a schematic, side view of the nasal guide 300 of FIG. 3 inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 7 further illustrates apotential shape and configuration of the nasal guide 300 for addingadditional horizontal and vertical stability. The support 302, bridge306, and lateral edge 312 stabilize the nasal guide 300 vertically andhorizontally. In addition, the lumens 308 are shaped to extend inwardfrom the supports 302 and 304. Although a second support is not shown,the nasal guide 300 may include both supports 302 and 304 (describedabove) from which the lumens 308 extend.

In one embodiment, the lumen 308 is conically-shaped and extends intothe nasal cavity of the patient 601 during use. The cone or wedge shapeof the lumens 308 that extends from the openings in the supports 302 and304 may be useful for naturally expanding the nostrils of the patient601 as the nasal guide 300 is inserted and the pulled towards the faceof the patient 601 by the elastic 314. The cone shape of the lumens 308facilitates natural expansion of the nostrils without causing pain forthe patient 601. As a result, the medical instruments may be more easilyinserted and removed from the nose 602. The lumens 308 may include asolid surface ensuring that medical instruments do not catch or snagduring insertion or extraction through the nasal guide 300. In anotherembodiment, the lumens 308 may have a spaced surface for savingmaterial. For example, a honeycomb or triangular support framework maysupport or constitute the one or more lumens 308 that are part of thenasal guide 300.

In one embodiment, the lumens 308 may curve slightly upward to betterguide medical instruments to the sinuses and nasal cavity. For example,the supports 302 and 304 may sit flat against the bottom of the nostrilsand the curved shape of the lumens 308 may better guide medicalinstruments. In one embodiment, the interior surface of the lumens 308may also include ridges (not shown) that run parallel to the nasalcavity for better guiding the medical instruments. The ridges may beflexible for providing additional support to the medical instrumentswhile still allowing the medical instruments to be maneuvered and movedas needed. In another embodiment, the interior portion of the lumens 308may include flexible extensions, protuberances, or arms (not shown) thatfurther stabilize the medical instruments while providing a small amountof friction or tactile feedback to the medical professional. Theflexible protuberances are configured to give way and bend when themedical professional moves the medical instruments, but also providesupport while the medical instruments are in use. The flexibility,diameter, length, proximity, and number of protuberances may vary basedon the amount of resistance that is desired. As a result, motion of themedical instruments may be slightly opposed to provide enhancedstability and smoothness to the movements of the medical instruments.The lumens 308 may also include rifling or narrowing segments. Thelumens 308 may also include notches, threads, or ridges that maycorrespond to the medical instrumentation being utilized ensuring thatthe medical instrumentation enters in a proper alignment and is securedduring utilization.

The lumens 308 may utilize a conical shape formed from a solid orsubstantially non-spaced material; such lumens 308 prevent the medicalinstruments from catching on the lumens 308 when inserted and removedfrom the nasal guide 300. The ends of the lumens 308 at the interior andexterior openings may flare outward so that the medical instruments donot catch on the edges of the lumens 308 during use. Alternatively, thelumens 308 and other portions of the nasal guide 316 may includecut-outs or integrated spaces for conserving the material utilized toform the nasal guide 300 when molded or assembled. The spaces may alsoprovide additional flexibility to all or portions of the nasal guide300. As a result, the nasal guide 300 may be deformed while beingpositioned on the patient 601 to best fit the nose 602 of the patient601.

In one embodiment, the nasal guide 300 may be injection molded from asingle piece of material in default or custom sizes and configurations.For example, the openings and overall size of the nasal guide 300 may becreated to specifically fit the nose 602 of the patient 601 based on apicture or scan. The picture or scan may be digitized and utilized toproperly size the nasal guide 300. In another embodiment, the differentportions of the nasal guide 300 may be formed from different materials.For example, the lateral edges 312 may be formed of a more flexiblematerial (e.g., plastic, latex, etc.) for adjusting to the size andshape of the nose 602 of the patient 601. The bridge 306 may be formedof a stiffer form of plastic for providing additional support.

FIG. 8 is a schematic, side-view of a nasal guide 800 in accordance withanother illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide 800 includes multiplelumens 802 and 804 instead of a single opening instead of a singlelumen. The nasal guide 800 may include additional supports or walls 806between the lumens 802 and 804 and the supports 302 (and 304 not shown)of the nasal guide 800. The framework of the nasal guide 300, includingthe additional supports 806, may prevent deformation of the nasal guide800 and the lumens 802 and 804 during insertion and removal of medicalinstruments. For example, the additional supports 806 may provide aframework enclosing the lumens 802 and 804 within a conical shape. Inanother embodiment, the supports 806 may enclose the lumens 802 and 804with a cylindrical shape. The nasal guide 800 may clip to the nostrilsof the nose 602 of the patient 601 with the lateral edges of thenostrils being secured between the lateral edges 808 and the supports806 (or alternatively between the lateral edges 808 and the lumens 802and 804). In another embodiment, the lumens 802 and 804 (or any of theother lumen or adapter configurations herein described) may includeseparate lumens and openings that are then joined or integrated into asingle lumen. Such a configuration may stabilize the medical instrumentsseparately while ultimately guiding the medical instrumentssubstantially along the same path.

FIG. 9 is a schematic, side-view of a nasal guide 900 in accordance withan illustrative embodiment. The nasal guide 900 may include multipleopenings with walls or supports defining the lumens 902 and 904 thatextend inward to a nasal cavity of a patient. In one embodiment, thelumens 902 and 904 may be defined separately and extend from thesupports 302 (and 304 not shown) of the nasal guide 900. The lumens 902and 904 may have a gap, or notch, between them.

FIG. 10 is a schematic, side-view of the nasal guide 300 being utilizedon a patient 601 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In oneembodiment, the nasal guide 300 may be utilized to protect the nose 602of the patient 601 during a medical procedure, such as balloonsinuplasty. The bridge 306 may touch the nose 602 of the patient 601during use. The lateral edges 312 may abut the lateral edges of thenostrils to provide lateral support.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for utilizing a nasal guide inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 11 maybe implemented by a medical professional, or any other person, utilizinga nasal guide on a patient as is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 10.

The process may begin with the medical professional positioning a nasalguide within nostrils of a patient (step 1102). In one embodiment, onlythe lumens (and supporting framework) of the nasal guide are insertedinto the nostrils extending to the nasal cavity of the patient. Themedical professional may select the nasal guide based on the size andshape of the nose of the patient. For example, the selected nasal guidemay be substantially smaller for a child. The nasal guide may also beselected based on the size and shape of the medical instruments that areutilized in performing the procedure. For example, a light source and anendoscope with a balloon may need to be inserted into the nostrilssimultaneously. As a result, the medical professional may select a nasalguide with two lumens. In another embodiment, the guide is configured toreceive a wired or portable endoscope or other medical instrumentthrough naturally or surgically-created openings, including, but notlimited to, laparoscopic, abdominal, pelvic, chest, head, neck,intracranial, ear, extremity, cardiac or vascular procedures ordiagnostic evaluations.

In another embodiment, the nasal guide may be created, customized,molded, or manufactured to meet the size and shape of a particularpatient's nose. In addition, the medical professional may select nasalguide attachments that may be attached to the nasal guide to applysuction and/or oxygen to the patient before, during, or after themedical procedure. The nasal guide may also be configured to act as awave guide, be illuminated, or glow in the dark. For example, a lightsource, when shined into the nasal guide, may light up the interior andexterior portions of the nasal guide.

In one embodiment, the portion of the nasal guide that is insertedwithin the nostril(s) may have a conical shape for enlarging thenostrils as the nasal guide is drawn into the nostril(s) of the patientby a securing mechanism, such as an elastic fastened around the neck orhead of the patient. The elastic or securing band may gently open thenostrils to provide easier access to the nasal cavities and sinuses.

Next, the medical professional secures the nasal guide to the patient(step 1104). As previously described, the nasal guide may be secured inany number of ways, including elastics, headgear, straps, clips,adhesives, draped configurations, and so forth. The nasal guide may beadjustable (e.g., tightening bands, Velcro, securing holes, etc.) andmay be secured to any portion of the body, clothes, or accessories ofthe patient, such as any portion of the head, neck, or ears. The nasalguide may also be connected to protective glasses. In one embodiment,the securing portion of the nasal guide is draped around the ears of apatient similar to a nasal cannula.

Next, the medical professional inserts one or more medical instrumentsthrough the nasal guide to perform a procedure (step 1106). The medicalinstruments may be inserted into and retracted from the nostrils andnasal passage any number of times. The nasal guide guides the medicalinstruments into the nasal passage during insertion. In one exampledetailing use of the nasal guide, a single medical professional ratherthan multiple medical professionals may perform a medical procedure. Thenasal guide may be utilized to ensure that the medical instruments arepositioned correctly to prevent abrasion, stabbing, or scraping the boneor tissue within the nasal passages or the interior and exterior of thenostrils. In addition, the nasal guide may stabilize the instruments inthe nose to allow for ease of manipulation during the proceduresespecially if the patient moves or sneezes.

In one embodiment, the medical professional may apply suction or oxygenthrough the nasal guide (step 1108). The nasal guide may be utilized toprovide suction or oxygen before, during, or after the procedure. Forexample, the nasal guide may be configured for simultaneously performingthe medical procedure through a first lumen as well as applying suctionor oxygen through a second lumen or through a separate side of the nasalguide. An attachment or insert may be built-in, inserted, or attached tothe nasal guide to apply suction or oxygen for the patient. In oneexample, one or more adapters may be inserted or screwed into theopenings of the lumens to provide suction or oxygen to the patient.Application of suction or oxygen through the nasal guide providesflexibility for rapidly-developing situations. For example, immediatelyafter a surgery a patient may need to receive oxygen to stimulaterecovery. As a result, the nasal guide may serve a dual-purpose. Inaddition, the nasal guide may be utilized to secure oxygen or applysuction for patients that are seizing, moving, or otherwise unable toreceive oxygen or suction through traditional means.

Turning now to FIGS. 12, 13 and 15, a schematic, pictorialrepresentation of a portable endoscope 1200 is shown in accordance withillustrative embodiments. An endoscope is an instrument that may beintroduced into the body of an individual or patient to give a view ofinternal parts. The portable endoscope 1200 may be utilized in verysmall spaces and may be easier to use than existing endoscopes. Existingendoscopes are generally bulky and not ergonomically shaped and mayrequire two or more medical professionals to operate effectively (e.g. adoctor and nurse). In one embodiment, the portable endoscope 1200 is awireless scope that is condensed into a reduced footprint or size. Theportable endoscope 1200 may be utilized by a single user or positioned asingle time or as needed within a nasal guide to free up hands of themedical professional.

The portable endoscope 1200 may be cleaned for repeated use or may be adisposable one-time use portable endoscope 1200. The portable endoscope1200 may be a wand or cylindrical-shape for easy handling by a medicalprofessional. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope has a diameteror cross-sectional measurement of between 1 mm to 5 mm, although thediameter may vary widely depending on the particular application.

The portable endoscope 1200 may be a stand-alone device or may beutilized or integrated with the nasal guide as herein described. Forexample, the portable endoscope 1200 may be built into one or more ofthe lumens of the nasal guide. The portable endoscope 1200 may also beattached to or inserted into the nasal guide.

As exemplified in the schematic front views of FIGS. 14 and 15, theportable endoscope 1200 may be shaped as a circle, rounded square, oval,ellipse, rounded triangle, or any other shape. The portable endoscope1200 may be utilized for any number of medical or non-medical proceduresor examinations that are known in the art. In one embodiment, theportable endoscope 1200 is configured to be received by an opening,lumen, or port of the nasal guide as herein described. The portableendoscope 1200 may be inserted to a required depth and positioned todisplay a video image to the medical professional. In one embodiment,friction, tight tolerances, or interference fittings of the opening andexternal dimensions of the portable endoscope 1200 may be utilized tosecure the portable endoscope 1200 in the nasal guide. In an alternativeembodiment, the nasal guide may include a positioning motor for movingthe portable endoscope 1200 in and out, rotating the portable endoscope1200, or otherwise positioning the portable endoscope 1200 within theexamined space. The same positioning feature may be performed for acamera 1202 without moving the portable endoscope.

In one embodiment, the portable endoscope 1200 may include the camera1202, a light 1204, a transceiver 1206, a battery 1208, and a switch1210. The portable endoscope 1200 may be enclosed in a case 1201. In oneembodiment, the case 1201 is a waterproof framework completely sealingin and securing the components of the portable endoscope. The case 1201may include any number of seals and watertight connections ensuring thatthe portable endoscope 1200 may be utilized multiple times withoutdamage from fluids. For example, the case 1201 may be formed entirely ofa metal, polymer, plastic, or glass. In another embodiment, differentcomponents and materials may be fused together. For example, the mainbody of the case 1201 may be formed of stainless steel with a glass endor lens for the light 1204 to shine through and the camera 1202 toretrieve video images.

In one embodiment, the case 1201 includes the contacts, interfaces,wires, or busses for each of the internal electrical components. Forexample, the camera 1202 and/or light 1204 may contact a video busintegrated within the frame or case 1201 for transmitting the videosignal to the transceiver 1206 for transmission. The light 1204 may alsoinclude an interface for communicating video signals from the camera1202 to the case 1201 or directly to the transceiver 1206. In oneembodiment, the bus for sending and receiving video or commands may beinsulated or the case 1201 may include a designated space ensuring thatnone of the components contact the bus. Likewise, a wire or powerconduit integrated within the case 1201 may communicate an electricalenergy signal from the battery 1208 to the transceiver 1206, light 1204,and/or camera 1202. Alternatively, the electrical components may beserially connected in the positioned order for both powering thecomponents and communicating a video signal (and command signals asneeded).

A first end 1203 of the case 1201 may include or be formed of a lens ortransparent plastic cover focusing or allowing light to be acquired asvideo content by the camera 1202. Any number of lenses may be utilizeddepending on the medical procedure being performed. For example, thelens may be a simple convex, biconvex, plano-convex, positive meniscus,negative meniscus, plano-concave, macro, zoom, apochromat, process,fisheye, stereoscopic, infrared, ultraviolet, swivel, biconcave, etc.lens. The lens may also be selected to prevent fluids from accumulatingon the camera 1202 and light 1204 blocking the view of the relevantsite.

In one embodiment, the camera 1202 is a condensed digital video cameraconfigured for wirelessly communicating the video content through thetransceiver 1206. The camera 1202 may be configured to capture video inresponse to the output of the light 1204 which may broadcast visiblelight, specific spectrums, infrared, ultrasound, ultra violet, x-ray,gamma ray, or other electromagnetic or non-electromagnetic imaging. Inone embodiment, the light 1204 may be a fiber optic light that ispowered by external sources. Any kind of digital or fiberoptic imagingor viewing device may be used may be used for the camera 1202 and thelight 1204. In one embodiment, the camera is a charge coupled device(CCD) camera, such as a CMOS camera composed of multiple stacked andinterconnected semiconductor layers. The camera 1202 may be configuredor selected to correspond to, pick-up, or capture the type of light 1204inserted or installed in the portable endoscope 1200. The camera 1202may be manually or remotely controllable. For example, the camera 1202may include a swivel lens that rotates to give unique perspectives andcamera angles. The lens or camera 1202 may be configured to protrudefrom or extends from the portable endoscope 1200. In another embodiment,the camera 1202 may be a fiber optic camera.

The camera 1202 may utilize any number of electronic or even vibrationalspectra for chemical analysis, oximetry, disease classification, andmolecular microscopy. For example, the camera 1202 may also beconfigured to include features of a microscope. In addition, diffusereflection, fluorescence reflectance (fluorescence spectroscopy), Ramanreflectance (Raman spectroscopy), and absorption may be observed,measured, or recorded by the camera 1202. The wavelength or spectrumproduced by the light 1204 may affect the light 1204 and camera 1202selected for the portable endoscope 1200. The camera 1202 may beconfigured to produce 1-D spatial information utilizing a singlewavelength or spectrum, 2-D spatial information utilizing wide-fieldspectroscopy/hyperspectral imaging, and 3-D spatial informationutilizing tomography. The camera 1202 may be selected for a particularlight 1204 or based on characteristics of the camera 1202 or generatedvideo signal including resolution, intensity, frame rate,signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), peak SNR, noise immunity, timing, scanning,and so forth.

The video captured by the video camera may be transmitted directly orindirectly to the wireless device 1212 or computing device 1214. Forexample, the portable endoscope 1200 may wirelessly communicate with thecomputing device through a network 1216. The network 1216 may utilize acommunication standard, such as 802.11 (e.g 802.11n) as the standardcontinues to be updated. The direct or indirect communications mayrepresent Bluetooth, ZigBee, WiFi, ultra-wideband, wireless USB,infrared, wireless local area network (WLAN), WiMAX, proprietarystandards, or other radio frequency signals whether analog or digitalthat may be utilized to communicate a video signal. Any number of FCC,FDA, IEEE, ISO, CEN, ETSI, ARIB, ANSI, or IEC approved communicationsprotocols or standards may also be transmitted by the transceiver 1206.The transceiver 1206 as well as the transceiver (not shown) of thewireless device 1212 or computing device 1214 may include any of thecomponents necessary for communicating utilizing these standards.Indeed, the types of wireless or wired standards or methods ofcommunication are numerous.

In one embodiment, an antenna (not shown) may be built into thetransceiver 1206. The antenna may also be a wire antenna that extendsfrom a second end 1205 of the case 1201 to establish a stronger wirelesssignal. In another embodiment, the case 1201 may be connected to thetransceiver 1206 allowing all or portions of the case 1201 to act as theantenna for the transceiver 1206.

The video signal may be received and displayed by the wireless device1212 and/or computing device 1214 in real-time. The video signal may beformatted before or after being sent from the portable endoscope 1200.In one embodiment, the portable endoscope 1200 may include a processor,ASIC, FPGA, and/or other logic for managing the portable endoscope 1200and processing the video signals. The video may be compressed in a rawor formatted state for communication by the transceiver 1206. Forexample, the video content may be packetized and communicated with orwithout error detection and known packet analysis, processing,decryption, and other similar steps may be performed by a receivingdevice. In one embodiment, the portable endoscope 1200 may include amemory for storing the video content for subsequent analysis, review,documentation, training, or educational purposes. Alternatively, thevideo may be recorded by the wireless device 1212 or computing device1214 for the same reasons. The wireless device 1212 and computing device1214 may also act as a server to deliver or save content to any numberof other client devices, systems, equipment, streaming configurations,or databases.

In another embodiment, a cable or wire may be utilized to communicatethe video directly to the wireless device 1212, computing device 1214,or to an external transceiver that is not integrated with the case 1201of the portable endoscope. (see, e.g., FIG. 16 below). The same cablemay also be utilized to power the portable endoscope 1200 from a remotelocation further reducing the required size of the portable endoscope1200. For example, a USB cable (standard, mini, micro, etc.) connectedto the portable endoscope 1200 and wireless device 1212 may both powerthe portable endoscope 1200 and communicate video to the wireless device1212.

A second end 1205 of the case 1201 may be removable for inserting orremoving the components of the portable endoscope 1200. For example, thesecond end 1205 of the case 1201 may snap in, interconnect, latch, orinclude threads for securing the components of the case 1201. Theportable endoscope 1200 may communicate with the wireless device 1212 orthe computing device 1214.

In one embodiment, the components of the portable endoscope 1200 may beinterchangeable. For example, even the relative positioning ofcomponents, such as the transceiver 1206 and battery 1208 may be varied.For example, the transceiver 1206 may more efficiently transmit andreceive signals when positioned at the second end 1205 of the portableendoscope 1200 where the battery 1208 is shown. As a result, theportable endoscope 1200 may be configured for each patient or medicalprofessional. For example, different cameras or batteries may beinserted into the case 1201 for different situations. In one embodiment,the camera 1202, which may include a video camera, may be an infraredcamera or spectrum-specific camera configured to view blood flow (or thelack thereof) within the nose. In another embodiment, the components ofthe portable endoscope 1200 are permanently connected.

In one embodiment, the components of the portable endoscope 1200 arepowered by the battery 1208. The battery 1208 may be a high-poweredenergy storage device. For example, the battery 1208 may be arechargeable or one-time use polymer battery, alkaline, zinc-airbattery, lithium ion battery, thin film battery, ultracapacitor, fuelcell, piezo electric generator, or other capacitors or batteries beingdeveloped and known in the art. The portable endoscope 1200 may beutilized repeatedly by replacing the battery 1208 as needed.

In another embodiment, the portable endoscope 1200 may include a port(not shown) for recharging the battery 1208 without removing the battery1208 from the case 1201. Similarly, the portable endoscope 1200 may beconfigured to function in a wireless or wired state. For example, theportable endoscope 1200 may be connected directly to the computingdevice 1214 utilizing a cable, bus, wire, or connector, such as amicro-USB to USB connector for communicating video content.Additionally, the portable endoscope 1200 may not include the battery1208 and instead may be powered and display video content through thewireless device 1212 or computing device 1214. For example, if themedical professional utilizes the wireless features of the portableendoscope draining the battery 1208, the portable endoscope 1200 may beconnected to the computing device 1214 for the additional powerrequirements while simultaneously charging the battery 1208 forsubsequent wireless usage. In another embodiment, the portable endoscope1200 may be capable of being directly charged by, e.g., a wall outlet orother stationary or semi-stationary form of power supply.

In one embodiment, the camera 1202, light 1204, transceiver 1206, andbattery 1208 may be interconnected by magnetic contacts, leads, pins, orconnectors (not shown). The magnetic contacts automatically align andattach the components when placed in proximity to one another. As aresult, a medical professional or other individual may easily add orremove the various electrical components of the portable endoscope andknow that the components will self-attach when placed in proximity toone another. The magnetic leads may include contacts for power, logic,or command signals, as well as video communications between eachcomponent.

In another embodiment, leads, wires, traces, contacts, or connectors maybe integrated with or built into the case 1201 for communicating power,video, control signals, or other signals between the camera 1202,transceiver 1206, and battery 1208 which may also include contacts orleads for interfacing with the case 1201. The case 1201 may also includeinsulators that prevent bleed over, noise, and cross-talk to keep thedistinct signals separate for each portion of the trace. In anotherembodiment, the camera 1202, transceiver 1206, and battery 1208, andother described components may communicate signals utilizing ports,contacts, adapters, or male and female connectors. For example, theconnectors may be pin, sleeve, and socket connectors of a reduced size,such as a version of a mini-DIN, S-video, DVI, USB, coaxial, or HDMIconnectors (micro video connectors). However, any other form of standardor proprietary connectors may be utilized to connect the electricalcomponents. For example, the connectors may have a footprint of 0.25mm-1 cm (diameter, area, length, etc), however, larger and smallerfootprints are also possible. In addition, the diameter of the portableendoscope 1200 may vary between 0.1 mm and 1.5 cm with other sizes beingproduced for different applications. For example, the portable endoscope1200 may vary in size from pencil or straw sized to coffee straw orneedle sized based on the type of manufacturing and design processesutilized for the portable endoscope 1200.

The components of the portable endoscope 1200 may include longitudinalor lateral ridges, notches, or other alignment structures for properlyaligning a component, such as the light 1204 and camera 1202 within thetransceiver 1206 and battery 1208. For example, a ridge (not shown)along the top of the cylindrically-shaped camera 1202 may prevent thecamera 1202 from being inserted in the light 1204 except when in theproper alignment. Similar ridges may be included on the light 1204,transceiver 1206, battery 1208, and logic if present. A correspondingnotch on the case 1201 may align the components.

In another embodiment, portions or components of the portable endoscope1200 may be separated by flexible connectors (not shown) (e.g.,centipede configuration) that allow distinct components or portions ofthe portable endoscope 1200 to be individually angled and positioned.For example, wired connectors between each component of the portableendoscope 1200, such as a bus configured to communicate video signalsand power, may enhance flexibility. For example, the light 1204 andcamera 1202 portion of the portable endoscope 1200 may be angled aparticular direction, relative to the remainder of the portableendoscope 1200, before insertion into the nose to view a selected sinus.The separated flexible portions of the portable endoscope 1200 may bemanually adjusted or controlled by one or more servos. In one example, amechanical pivot that provides resistive adjustments may be twisted toachieve the desired configuration of the portable endoscope. Forexample, a graphical user interface accessible through the computingdevice 1214 may be utilized to receive user selections or commands topivot or rotate the portion of the portable endoscope 1200 including thecamera 1202 and light 1204.

The electrical components of the portable endoscope 1200 may bemanufactured utilizing processes for plastic, organic, and inorganicsemiconductors, substrates, electronics, and logic. For example, thelight 1204, transceiver 1206, and battery 1208 may include flexibleplastic-based substrates that function with printable conductive inks,organic light-emitting diode (OLED) layers and materials, and/oractive-matrix thin-film-transistor arrays. Multilayer compositestructures may be utilized to create and manufacture the portableendoscope. For example, roll-to-roll processing with inkjet printing orspray deposition may be utilized to produce the flexible and reducedfootprint components of the portable endoscope 1200. In one embodiment,the entire portable endoscope 1200 may be configured to flex to be movedand positioned to the correct location. Magnetic coupling, wires, andMEMs connections may be utilized to bend and flex the portable endoscope1200.

FIG. 13 is a schematic, side-view of a light 1204 and camera 1202 inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, thecamera 1202 is cylindrically shaped and is inserted or partially encasedin the light 1204. The light 1204 may be doughnut, or annular, shapedand configured to receive the camera 1202. During assembly of thevarious parts, the light 1204 and camera 1202 may be changed out as haspreviously been described.

In another embodiment, the camera and light 1204 may both be stacked orplaced side by side. Alternatively, the camera 1202 and/or light 1204may utilize different shapes, such as an ellipse, semi-circle, square,rectangle, or oval.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are schematic front views of the portable endoscope 1200in accordance with illustrative embodiments. FIG. 14 illustrates theportable endoscope 1220 shaped as an oval. The light 1204 may be formedfrom boomerang-shaped lights. The light 1204 may emit a single spectrumof light or distinct spectra depending on the needs of the medicalprofessional. For example, an upper portion 1206 of the light may be aminiaturized halogen light configured to emit a bright white light andthe lower portion 1208 of the light may be an infrared LED that may beactivated as needed. In one embodiment, the light 1204 and camera 1202may directly abut each other. In another embodiment, any number ofspacers or separators may be built into the case 1201, camera 1202, orlight 1204 to correctly position the various components.

FIG. 15 illustrates the portable endoscope 1200 of FIG. 13 with a camera1202 and a surrounding light 1204. The light 1204 may be a single lightor may be composed of multiple lights that transmit light or signals atdifferent frequencies or intensities. For example, different lights maybe turned on at different times to examine cartilage, bone, blood flow,skin, or other forms of tissue. In one embodiment, the camera 1202 mayfixedly or movably extend or protrude from the end of the portableendoscope 1200 to provide an uninhibited view of portions of the bodyduring use.

In one embodiment, the camera 1202 may be connected to a motor thatallows the camera 1202 to extend a small distance from the end of theportable endos cope 1204, rotate, and/or pivot. For example, the case1201 may include bearings or rollers (not shown) for extending androtating the camera 1202. The motor may be controlled remotely utilizinglogic included in the portable endoscope 1200. For example, the wirelessdevice 1212 of FIG. 12 may include a graphical user interface forrotating or pivoting the camera 1202, extending the camera 1202,switching between light spectrums, and recording video content. Theportable endoscope 1200 including the switch 1210 (shown in FIG. 12) mayalso include controls for these functions as well. In addition, thecamera 1202 may be able to zoom in and out. In one embodiment, thecamera 1202 may utilize a fly eye configuration to get multiple views.

FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of a portable endoscope 1600. Theportable endoscope 1600 may include a case 1602, first end 1604, camera1606, light 1608, cable 1610, transceiver 1612, and battery 1614. Theportable endoscope 1600 is externally connected to the transceiver 1612and battery 1614. As a result, the size of the portable endoscope 1600may be reduced even further.

In one embodiment, the cable 1610 of the portable endoscope 1600 isincorporated into an elastic, Velcro band, or securing component for thenasal guide. The cable 1610 may include a video cable for communicatinga video signal to the transceiver 1612 as well as a wire for providingpower. The transceiver 1612 and battery 1614 may be attached orintegrated into the securing component of the nasal guide. For example,the Velcro band may include a pocket for inserting the transceiver 1612and battery 1614, and the cable 1610 may be built in. In one embodiment,the transceiver 1612 may also include a port (not shown) for connectingthe portable endoscope 1600 to a wireless device or computing device toview the video content and perform the medical procedure with the visualassistance of the portable endoscope 1600.

The first end 1604 of the portable endoscope 1600 may have a diagonalconcave shape for preventing blood, mucous, pus, or other fluids fromaccumulating on the first end 1604 thereby blocking the view of thecamera 1606 and the output of the light 1608. Blood that accumulates onthe first end 1604 preferably runs to the bottom or side of the portableendoscope 1600 because of the shape.

In another embodiment, the first end 1604 may be rounded with an evenconcave shape that pushes or maintains an air bubble in front of thefirst end 1604 of the portable endoscope 1600 during utilization keepingthe camera 1606 unobstructed.

FIG. 17 is a schematic, pictorial representation of a nasal guide 1700being utilized with a portable endoscope 1702 and a balloon catheter1704 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The balloon catheter1704 may be a medical device, endoscope, catheter, technology, orsystem, such as those sold by Acclarent™. In one embodiment, the medicalprofessional may insert and position the nasal guide 1700 in the nose ofthe patient as previously described. In this embodiment, the nasal guide1700 includes an elongated frame 1705 enclosing a first lumen 1708 and asecond lumen 1710. The lumens 1708, 1710 of the nasal guide 1700 areelongated to reach further into the nasal cavity of the patient towardthe sinuses for performing various medical procedures. As previouslydescribed, the elongated frame 1705 may be funnel or coned shaped ornarrow slightly at one end to facilitate expansion of the nostrils andto reach further into the nasal cavities as the nasal cavities narrow.

The portable endoscope 1702 and balloon catheter 1704 may be positionedin either the first lumen 1708 or the second lumen 1710 of the nasalguide. In one embodiment, the nasal guide 1700 may include the firstlumen 1708 and second lumen 1710 for both nostrils and the portableendoscope 1702 and balloon catheter 1704 may be moved between any ofthose lumens based on the physical condition of the patient, medicalprocedure being performed, and/or preferences of the medicalprofessional.

Next, the portable endoscope 1702 may be inserted through the firstlumen 1708 of the nasal guide 1700 to the nasal cavity of the patient.The portable endoscope 1702 may be turned on and activated to begincommunicating video through a wireless signal 1706 to a wireless adapter1707, wireless device, or computing device as previously described. Thewireless adapter 1707 may be utilized with any number of electronicdevices to receive or format the video content in real-time. In oneembodiment, the wireless adapter 1707 is an adapter, such as a USBadapter, dongle, or other wireless interface configured to receivewireless communications from the portable endoscope 1702, and maydecode, decrypt, and/or format the video signal retrieved by the cameraof the portable endoscope 1702 for view by a medical professional orother party. The wireless adapter 1707 may utilize any of the standardsare previously described to communicate with the portable endoscope1702.

The portable endoscope 1702 may be secured by the nasal guide 1700 at adesired position and location selected by the medical professional. Theportable endoscope 1702 may easily be further inserted, removed, orrotated. The video provided by the portable endoscope 1702 may becommunicated to one or more other devices for guiding or informing themedical professional while performing a medical procedure. The portableendoscope 1702 may provide both light and video within the nasal or bodycavity or other orifice. The light and video may be utilized to positionand utilize the balloon catheter 1704. For example, the video from theportable endoscope 1702 may ensure that a wire and balloon insertedthrough the balloon catheter are guided into a selected sinus forperforming a procedure, such as balloon sinuplasty.

In another embodiment, the portable endoscope 1702 may include amotorized end for controlling the positioning of the inserted end withthe light and camera. For example, the portable endoscope 1702 may pivot90° and rotate 360°. In addition, the light and camera may be configuredto be extended or retracted from the frame of the portable endoscope1702. For example, a graphical user interface of an iPad, tablet, orother computing device may be utilized to vertically and horizontallyposition and angle the portable endoscope (and corresponding light andcamera) to a desired position to illuminate tissue and provide videoguidance of the balloon catheter 1704 and insertion of a wired ballooninto one or more sinuses.

In another embodiment, the first lumen 1708 or the second lumen 1710 maybe enclosed or sealed on an interior end 1711. As a result, anon-medical scope, borescope, probe, or other instrument may be insertedinto the nasal guide 1700 without requiring an FDA-approved device orextensive sanitation. The sealed end of the lumen may be formed of atransparent glass or plastic for videoing through the nasal guide 1700.In another embodiment, the nasal guide 1700 includes extensions (notshown) sized only slightly bigger than the first lumen 1708 or secondlumen 1710 for extending the reach of the openings. The extensions maybe straw-like extensions that further extend the reach of the nasalguide 1700 and may be open ended or enclosed. Depending on theconfiguration of the nasal guide 1700 as have been illustrated in theprevious embodiments, the extensions may extend from 1 cm to 20 cm fromthe end of the elongated frame 1705, but the distance may vary from thisdepending on the procedure or application.

In another embodiment, the extensions or the elongated frame 1705 of thenasal guide 1700 may include corrugations (not shown) like a flexiblestraw for angling or positioning the first lumen 1708 and second lumen1710. For example, the nasal guide 1700 may be manually bent orconfigured particularly at the corrugations to enhance performance ofthe medical procedure and the nose of the patient. Similarly, a portionof the frame 1705 of the portable endoscope 1702 may be corrugated formanually, mechanically, or electrically configuring the shape anddirection of the portable endoscope 1702.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting inscope. In particular, components and features of the differentembodiments, such as embodiments of the nasal guide and portableendoscope, may be combined in any number of possible combinations thatare not described herein for purposes of brevity. The following claimsset forth a number of the embodiments of the invention disclosed withgreater particularity.

What is claimed:
 1. A wireless endoscope, comprising: a light integrated in a first portion; a lens positioned proximate the light in the first portion, wherein the light and the lens are inserted into a body, and wherein the first portion is interchangeable; a connector physical securing the first portion to a second portion, wherein the second portion is not inserted into the body; a camera capturing video content received through the lens; and a wireless transceiver transmits the video content to a receiver associated with a display device.
 2. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, further comprising: logic controlling operation of the wireless endoscope.
 3. The wireless endoscope of claim 2, wherein the logic formats the video for wireless communication from the wireless transceiver to the receiver associated with the displaying device.
 4. The wireless endoscope of claim 3, wherein the receiver is a dongle.
 5. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the light and the lens extend from a distal end of a case, wherein the case encloses the connector, camera, and wireless transceiver.
 6. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the case is cylindrical.
 7. The wireless endoscope of claim 6, wherein a diameter of the case varies with the first portion being narrower than the second portion.
 8. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the first portion and the second portion are connected to allow illumination at the light and capture of the video content by the camera through the lens.
 9. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the light includes a light source that communicates light to a distal end of the first portion, wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery for repeated usage.
 10. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the light utilize a plurality of spectra including at least visible light and infrared.
 11. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the camera rotates.
 12. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, further comprising: a memory for capturing video content.
 13. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, wherein the first portion is flexibly connected to the second portion.
 14. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, further comprising: a port for recharging a rechargeable battery of the wireless endoscope.
 15. The wireless endoscope of claim 2, wherein the logic includes a processor formatting the video content for communication by the wireless transceiver to the receiver.
 16. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, further comprising: a switch for turning on and off the wireless endoscope, recording the video content, and switching between light spectrums.
 17. The wireless endoscope of claim 1, further comprising: guides for aligning the first portion with the second portion.
 18. A wireless endoscope, comprising: a light integrated in a first portion; a lens positioned proximate the light in the first portion, wherein the light and the lens are inserted into a body, and wherein the first portion is interchangeable; a connector physical securing the first portion to the second portion, wherein the second portion is not inserted into the body; a camera capturing video content received through the lens; and a wireless transceiver integrated in the second portion transmits the video content to a receiver associated with a display device; and a rechargeable battery connected to and powering the light, camera, and wireless transceiver, wherein an exterior surface of the wireless endoscope is rounded.
 19. The wireless endoscope of claim 18, wherein the case is cylindrical, and wherein a diameter of the case varies with the first portion being narrower than the second portion.
 20. The wireless endoscope of claim 18, wherein the light and camera utilize a plurality of spectra including at least visible light and infrared. 